Senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, and the oldest voters cast their votes at Araullo High School in Ermita, Manila, on Monday (May 12, 2025). Their designated voting time is from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) secretary Jay Ruiz reported on Monday that the May 12 national and local elections have so far proceeded without any major untoward incidents.
Speaking during the “Hatol ng Bayan 2025” coverage, Ruiz assured the public of the government’s commitment to delivering accurate, real-time, and comprehensive election coverage through state media.
“As of now, we haven’t received reports of any significant disruptions at our command center,” Ruiz said in Filipino. “Rest assured, our state media is closely monitoring developments across the country.”
He noted one isolated case involving an elderly woman who fainted due to the high heat index at her polling precinct, but emphasized that no widespread issues have emerged.
Ruiz, who voted early Monday morning at Barangay Holy Spirit in Quezon City, described the voting process at his precinct as smooth, with short wait times. However, he acknowledged that conditions may vary in more congested areas with higher voter turnout.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any instances of vote-buying, fraud, or election-related violence.
“If you witness any irregularities—cheating, vote-selling, or similar activities—please inform us right away. The Philippine National Police is also on standby to respond to such complaints,” Ruiz said.
He emphasized the importance of responsible voting, stressing that electing capable leaders will shape the country’s future. “This is for the future of all of us. When we vote for the right leaders, our government can function better. For our generation and the next, let’s choose wisely.”
Over 200 state media personnel have been deployed nationwide to support “Hatol ng Bayan,” which began coverage at 5 a.m. on Monday and will continue until 2 a.m. Tuesday.
The government’s media network is also working with the Philippine National Police and the Department of Information and Communications Technology to combat misinformation and fake news, especially during the campaign period.
Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, early attempts to spread disinformation online have already been detected and addressed, Ruiz said.
He encouraged the public to rely on verified sources of information during the elections, assuring them that state media remains committed to fair, accurate reporting and safeguarding democratic processes.
“If you’re looking for accurate, impartial coverage, you’ll find it here,” he said. “As the President reminded us, we must show the entire nation that the government is here for the people.”
Ruiz concluded with a message of hope and unity: “Our country faces many challenges, but through unity and the right choice of leaders who genuinely serve the public, change is possible. As President Marcos says, ‘While there is life, there is hope for a New Philippines.’”